Government’s new financial support is rubbing salt in the wounds of the excluded - MP

Commenting on this afternoon's announcement from the Chancellor of further support for businesses forced to close under local lockdowns, Cumbrian MP Tim Farron said: "Of course it's welcome to see more help for those businesses who are being asked to close due to a second wave of virus infections.

"But I'm utterly bewildered to see that there is nothing yet again for the three million excluded.

"From freelancers to small business owners, the Chancellor has had seven months now to find a way to support these people but it looks like he simply hasn't bothered.

"While the Government rub salt into the wounds, I will continue to work with colleagues from across the House to demand the excluded get the support they need and deserve."